Let’s dive into the world of car seats!
You might have heard about rotating car seats and wondered if they’re the right choice for your little one. Well, let’s talk about that Before you make a decision, it’s crucial to consider many factors such as: safety, convenience, comfort, cost, and longevity.
Yes, rotating car seats are a safe option for your little ones only if installed properly. So, why not buy a regular car seat instead?
Well, let’s dig into some more facts regarding the 2 options. Keep reading!
What are rotating car seats?
Rotating car seats also known as swivel car seats, are those that spin around on their base, letting you face your child towards the car’s door.
This makes it super easy to put them in and secure them properly. The base is usually attached using Isofix connectors, which are really strong and safe.
The spinning feature does two main things: it helps you put your child in the seat, and it makes it easy to switch between facing backwards and forwards.
There are 2 types of rotating car seats:
- 180-rotating car seats
- 360-rotating car seats
Some of these seats can spin all the way around (360 degrees), so you can choose whether your child faces forward or backward. Others only turn halfway (180 degrees), but still make it much simpler to get your little one safely buckled up.
The rotating feature provided by these car seats significantly simplifies the process of using a car seat.
Parents can effortlessly swivel the car seat to easily buckle their child in. Additionally, when it’s time for toddlers to transition to forward-facing, parents won’t encounter the challenges often associated with installing a convertible car seat. Instead, they can simply rotate the seat into a forward-facing position.
These types of seats give both parents and children more flexibility in the car seat
Are rotating car seats safe for my child?
Yes! Generally, swivel car seats are safe if installed properly. They also follows strict safety regulations and goes through rigorous testing before being released to the market.
However, there is no data suggesting that rotating car seats provide extra safety for your child.
Some rotating car seats advertise additional safety features and sensors that may be beneficial to use but there is no official research to back up this information.
Read more: 5 best rotating car seats reviewed
Advantages of using a rotating car seat
Well, rotating car seats have recently become a top choice for parents, as it makes their life easier.
Here are some of the advantages that a swivel car seat can offer you:
1. Convenience
The rotating feature makes it super easy to position your child comfortably and securely. You won’t have to bend over the car seat to fit your child in it especially when rear-facing.
All you have to do is rotate the car seat to face the car door, put the child in, buckle up and rotate the seat again to its position.
This allows parents to rear face longer and make road trips with a child without any hassle.
2. Easy Installation
Unlike traditional convertible car seats, rotating car seats are installed in your car only once.
If you opt for a 360 rotating car seat, it’s easy to make the switch from rear-facing to forward-facing.
All it takes is to press the button to rotate the car seat.
This feature saves a lot of time and energy compared to the regular seats where you have to install and detach.
3. Longevity
Despite being a little pricey due to their added functionality, Consider how long your child will use the car seat.
The weight capacity of 360-degree rotating car seats can be a good long-term investment. i
For example, the Sirona S car seat 360 rotating car seat can carry a child in rear-facing mode up to 50 lb and forward-facing mode up to 65 lb.
The Evenflo Gold Revolve 360 is an all-in-one car seat as it goes up to booster stage with 120lb.
This means, in addition to making your parenting life easier, these seats offer comfort, security, and convenience and save you the cost of buying a second car seat as your child grows. .
What to look for when buying a rotating car seat
When considering the purchase of a swivel car seat, your first decision revolves around the type you need: whether it’s a 180-degree rotating model or a full 360-degree one.
This choice largely depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Next on the agenda is your budget. While 360-degree rotating car seats offer increased flexibility and a simpler installation process, it’s important to know that they typically come with a higher price tag compared to their 180-degree counterparts.
Beyond the initial type and cost considerations, it’s essential to factor in the weight capacity of the car seat.
As your child grows, you’ll want a rotating car seat that can accommodate them for as long as possible.
Additionally, their size. This is particularly crucial if you own a compact car like a Jeep Wrangler or a cab truck.
Not all car seats will fit seamlessly into every backseat, so it’s wise to check dimensions and do a fit check before making your purchase.
For assistance in selecting the right car seat for your vehicle, be sure to explore our comprehensive car seat guides tailored to various makes and models.
Keep in mind that rotating car seats tend to occupy more space than regular car seats, underscoring the importance of paying attention to size and conducting a fit check prior to finalizing your decision.
Check out our guide for choosing your car seat by the type of vehicle you have.
The Bottom Line
Rotating car seats are safe to use. However, they are costly and occupy more space in the car.
FAQs
What are rotating car seats?
Rotating car seats are designed to rotate 360 degrees on their base. This feature allows parents to easily place their child in the seat, switch between rear-facing and forward-facing positions, and remove the child from the seat without having to stretch awkwardly into the car.
Are rotating car seats really worth it?
For parents looking for convenience and don’t mind the high price, yes rotating car seats are worth it. For many parents, the convenience of a rotating car seat is a game-changer. It simplifies the process of getting a child in and out of the car, making it less physically demanding. Also, the ability to easily switch between rear and forward-facing positions can offer extended use and adaptability as your child grows.
What is the most comfortable rotating car seat?
Some rotating car seats are known for their high levels of comfort, superior materials, and additional features like adjustable recline positions, enhanced side impact protection, and plush padding. But we think rotating car seats from Cybex, Maxi-Cosi, and Nuna are among the best to choose for comfort .
What car seats can rotate?
Several brands manufacture rotating car seats. Some of our recommended rotating car seats are: Evenflo Gold Revolve, Cyber Siren S, Graco Turn2Me, Baby Jogger City Turn and Nuna REVV.
